measuring ingredients, before or after?

Violet S. (Q&A ID 2019)

In a recipe, you'll often see:

1/2 cup pitted green olives, chopped

Are you supposed to measure 1/2 cup olives, then chop them. Or, chop them and then measure a 1/2 cup. While I think the former is what's wanted, I would like to know for sure.

Thanks!

Tamara V. (Q&A ID 1342)

Hi Violet,

Your first thought is correct.

Lynn C. (Q&A ID 662)

Hi Violet - Tamara is correct! 1/2 cup pitted green olives (that are then) chopped. You would measure the olives and then chop them. If we wanted you to chop the olives and then measure, we would call for 1/2 cup pitted chopped olives. Hope that clears it up! Best, Lynn C.

Zachary S. (Q&A ID 316)

Measure first, then chop! (I'm pretty sure)

I think that is why there is a comma there. I did have to think about this when i was preparing 2.5 lbs of apples, peeled cored and sliced.

I weighed apples first, then prepared them. Hopefully Milk Street experts agree....